24/01/2017

Two Men Arrested After Police Officer Shot In North Belfast

Two more men have been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a police officer in north Belfast.

The attack happened at a petrol station on the Crumlin Road on Sunday, 22 January.

The officer sustained two bullet wounds to his arm and is in a stable condition in hospital.

The suspects, aged 30 and 39, were detained on Monday, 23 January.

A 36-year-old man was arrested on Sunday and is helping police with their enquiries.

The area has now been re-opened.

Police are appealing for information about a car they believe was used in the attack.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes said: "We would like to trace the movements of a dark red Audi A4 Estate, registration number KNZ 2862. It's around 15 years old – an old-style model. We believe it was used by those involved to leave the scene following the shooting.

"I am keen to hear from anyone who saw the vehicle around the Flax Street and Crumlin Road around 7.30pm last night and in Culmore Gardens about 30 minutes later at 8pm where it was found burnt out. I'd also like to hear from anyone who noticed this car and its movements during December 2016 up to last night's shooting.

"We have recovered bullets from a number of locations on the forecourt and in several cars. Any one of these could quite easily killed or seriously injured local people, including the children who were at the station. Had any of the bullets hit the fuel containers we may have also been facing casualties from an explosion. It was completely reckless.

"I'm pleased to say the community police officer who sustained two bullet wounds to his arm has now undergone surgery and is recovering well in hospital."



Pic: PSNI

(CD/JP)

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